💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (August Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

GS Paper: GS3

  • What is U.S.’s new rule for exporting AI chips?

    Why in the News?

    The U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) created a system with different levels to control the sale and export of AI chips and technology more effectively.

    What is the main objective behind one of the last orders of the Biden administration? 

    • National Security and Foreign Policy: The primary goal of the BIS regulations is to enhance control over the circulation of advanced AI technology and chips to align with U.S. national security and foreign policy interests.
      • The regulations aim to prevent sensitive technologies from reaching adversarial nations, thereby mitigating risks associated with military advancements and cyber operations.
    • Secure Technology Ecosystem: The regulations are designed to cultivate a secure and trusted technology ecosystem that promotes the responsible use and diffusion of AI technologies, ensuring that advanced AI capabilities do not fall into the hands of U.S. adversaries.

    How will the tiered framework for licensing and exporting Artificial Intelligence chips work? 

    • Three-Tier System: The new regulations categorize countries into three tiers based on their relationship with the U.S.:
      • Tier 1: No restrictions for exports to 18 U.S. allies, including Australia, Canada, and Japan.
      • Tier 2: Countries like China and India face caps on volumes and require Validated End User (VEU) authorization for transactions contributing to advanced AI development.
      • Tier 3: Arms-embargoed countries such as North Korea and Iran have no access to advanced AI technology.

    How has the tech industry responded to the move? 

    • Concerns Over Competitiveness: Major tech companies, including NVIDIA and Oracle, have expressed apprehension that these regulations could undermine U.S. competitiveness in the global tech landscape.
      • They argue that restricting access to widely available technologies may not enhance security but instead hinder innovation.
    • Call for Revisions: Industry leaders hope that the incoming administration will reconsider or withdraw these regulations, citing potential disruptions to business operations and global supply chains.

    Will it affect the Indian Economy?

    • Impact on AI Growth: As India invests heavily in its National AI Mission, which aims to develop infrastructure with over 10,000 GPUs through a ₹10,000 crore investment, the restrictions could pose substantial challenges in scaling up AI capabilities post-2027.
      • The limits on GPU imports may deter innovation and slow down the growth of India’s tech sector.
    • Potential Delays in Infrastructure Development: Major data center providers in India, such as Tata Communications and CtrlS, may face delays or downsizing of their plans due to restricted access to GPUs. This could place Indian companies at a competitive disadvantage compared to their U.S. counterparts.
    • India’s Exclusion from Trusted Allies: India is not included in the list of trusted U.S. allies due to concerns over the leakage of chips to countries like Russia.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Domestic AI Capabilities: India should accelerate the development of indigenous AI technologies and chips to reduce reliance on foreign imports, invest in local R&D and foster partnerships with global tech firms for technology transfer.
    • Diversify Global Alliances: India could strengthen its technological partnerships with countries outside the U.S. and explore alternative markets to source AI chips, ensuring the diversification of its supply chains to mitigate the impact of export restrictions.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q “The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • [pib] Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The Department of Commerce under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has launched the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme to bolster the global competitiveness of India’s diamond sector.

    About the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme

    • The DIA Scheme permits duty-free import of natural cut and polished diamonds for export purposes.
    • It mandates an export obligation with a value addition of 10%.
    • Objective: To retain India’s leadership in the global diamond industry value chain by facilitating ease of doing business.
    • It will be implemented starting April 1, 2025.
    • Features of the Scheme:
      • Duty-Free Import: Allows duty-free import of natural cut and polished diamonds of less than ¼ Carat (25 Cents).
      • Export Obligation: Requires a minimum 10% value addition to ensure beneficiation.
      • Eligibility: Open to Two Star Export Houses and above; Exporters with annual exports of at least USD 15 million are eligible.
      • Support for MSMEs: Provides a level playing field for smaller exporters, enabling them to compete with larger players.
      • Global Beneficiation Practices: Inspired by beneficiation policies in diamond-mining countries like Botswana, Namibia, and Angola, where manufacturers must establish cutting and polishing facilities.

    India’s Diamond Industry: Current Status

    • India processes over 90% of the world’s diamonds and provides jobs to approximately 5 million people.
    • India contributes 19% of total global diamond exports.

    Challenges:

    • Exports Decline:
      • 2022: Exports valued at $23 billion.
      • 2023: Declined to $16 billion, with further declines anticipated.
    • Rough Diamond Imports: Fell by 24.5%, from $18.5 billion (FY 2021-22) to $14 billion (FY 2023-24).
    • Exports of Cut and Polished Diamonds: Dropped by 34.6%, from $24.4 billion (FY 2022) to $13.1 billion (FY 2024).
    • Inventory Challenges: The gap between net imports of rough diamonds and net exports of cut and polished diamonds widened from $1.6 billion (FY 2022) to $4.4 billion (FY 2024).
    • Returns of Unsold Diamonds: The percentage of unsold diamonds returned to India rose from 35% to 45.6% between FY 2022 and FY 2024.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Which one of the following foreign travellers elaborately discussed about diamonds and diamond mines of India?

    (a) Francois Bernier

    (b) Jean-Baptiste Tavernier

    (c) Jean de Thevenot

    (d) Abbe Barthelemy Carre

  • Jawaharlal Nehru Port

    Why in the News?

    The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Mumbai is on track to become India’s first port to join the ranks of top global ports by handling 10 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually by 2027.

    About the Jawaharlal Nehru Port

    • JNP is situated in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, covering an area of 200 square kilometers. Its strategic location enables vital trade links with international shipping routes.
    • Key Features:
      • India’s first 100% Landlord Major Port.
      • Operates five container terminals, including BMCT, NSICT, and GTIPL.
      • Customs facilities: 30 container freight stations and connectivity to 52 inland depots.
      • Handles vessels with 9,000 TEUs capacity, soon upgrading to 12,200 TEUs.
      • Processes 200 international ships monthly.
    • Future Developments:
      • Fourth Container Terminal operational by April 2025, adding 4.8 million TEUs capacity.
      • Developing a satellite port at Vadhvan and dry ports at Jalna and Wardha.

    Key Highlights of JNPA’s Expansion

    • In 2024, JNPA handled its highest-ever container volume of 7.05 million TEUs, operating at more than 90% capacity.
    • The port recorded an 11% year-on-year growth compared to the previous year.
    • The second phase of Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal will add 2.4 million TEUs to JNPA’s total capacity.
    • The upgradation of Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal in 2025 will further enhance the port’s capabilities.
    • The total container handling capacity is projected to increase from 7.6 million TEUs to 10.4 million TEUs by 2027.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Recently, which of the following States has explored the possibility of constructing an artificial inland port to be connected to sea by a long navigational channel?

    (a) Andhra Pradesh

    (b) Chhattisgarh

    (c) Karnataka

    (d) Rajasthan

  • Pinaka Rocket Systems

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Army is bolstering its artillery strength with a significant ₹10,200 crore order for ammunition associated with the Pinaka Multi-Launch Rocket System (MLRS).

    About the Pinaka Rocket System

    Details
    • A multi-barrel rocket launcher developed by DRDO and manufactured by Indian defence firms.
    • Named after the legendary bow of Lord Shiva, symbolizing power and precision.
    Key Features  
    • Multiple Launch Capability: Fires 12 rockets in just 44 seconds, delivering overwhelming firepower.
    • Mobility: Mounted on 8×8 or 6×6 trucks, allowing rapid deployment in diverse terrains.

    Range:
    – Pinaka Mk-I: 40 km.
    – Pinaka Mk-II and Enhanced Versions: 60–75 km.
    – Guided Variant: 90 km, with improved accuracy and reduced collateral damage.

    • Guidance and Precision: Equipped with satellite-based guidance for precision targeting.
    • Payload Options: Carries multiple warheads, including high explosives, incendiaries, anti-personnel, and anti-tank bomblets.
    • Quick Deployment and Reloading: Rapid deployment enables swift counter-strikes.
    • Modularity and Expandability: Modular design supports advanced technology integration for network-centric warfare.
    Operational Use
    • Proven effectiveness in mountainous and rugged terrains.
    • Played a critical role in Indian Army operations, showcasing its adaptability and firepower.
    Significance  
    • Boost to Artillery Strength: Enhances the Indian Army’s firepower with new regiments and extended-range rockets.
    • Cornerstone of Modernization: Central to India’s artillery modernization for precision and operational flexibility.
    • Border Security and Deterrence: Secures borders and acts as a strategic deterrent against adversaries.
    • Global Success: Strengthens India’s defense export market and contributes to defense diplomacy.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Which reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. It is a surface-to-surface missile.

    2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.

    3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Mission SCOT

    Why in the News?

    Onboard SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission, Indian space surveillance firm Digantara successfully launched SCOT (Space Camera for Object Tracking), the world’s first commercial Space Situational Awareness (SSA) satellite.

    About Mission SCOT:

    Details
    • World’s first commercial SSA satellite, designed to track and characterize Resident Space Objects (RSOs) in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
    • Launched via SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission as part of a rideshare program.
    • Supported by Aditya Birla Ventures and SIDBI.
    Note: As part of the Network for Space Objects Tracking and Analysis (NETRA), ISRO is also developing a Space Surveillance and Tracking (SST) network equipped with advanced radars and optical telescopes to strengthen threat analysis and safeguard space assets.
    Aims and Objectives
    • Enhancing Space Safety: Prevent satellite collisions and optimize orbital resources.
    • Sovereign Surveillance: Strengthen India’s capabilities to protect its space assets.
    • Technological Leadership: Address gaps in global SSA technologies.
    • Sustainability: Promote safer and more sustainable space operations.
    Features/Significance
    • Operates in a sun-synchronous orbit, unaffected by weather or geography.
    • Tracks RSOs as small as 5 cm with high revisit rates and accuracy.
    • Safeguards critical satellites crucial for economic and strategic security.
    • Optimizes traffic management and enhances collision avoidance.
    Contribution to India’s Growth
    • Demonstrates India’s leadership in SSA technologies.
    • Highlights the role of Indian startups in space innovation.
    • Establishes India as a reliable international space partner.
    • Fosters investment in advanced surveillance technologies for future space developments.

     

    PYQ:

    [2010] In the context of space technology, what is “Bhuvan”, recently in the news?

    (a) A mini satellite launched by ISRO for promoting the distance education in India

    (b) The name given to the next Moon Impact Probe, for Chandrayan-II

    (c) A geoportal of ISRO with 3D imaging capabilities of India

    (d) A space telescope developed by India

  • In news: Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary

    Why in the News?

    The Kalaburagi Forest Division is working to relocate a hamlet within the Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary on the Karnataka-Telangana border to a safer area.

    About the Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary

    Details
    • Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2011, covering 134.88 sq. km.
    • Recognized as the first dryland Wildlife Sanctuary in South India.
    • Located in the Kalaburagi District, renowned for its floristic diversity.
    • Contributes to the conservation of dryland ecosystems.
    Geographical Location
    • Situated in the Hyderabad Karnataka region.
    • Features the Chandrampalli Dam and four smaller dams within the sanctuary.
    Flora and Fauna
    • Flora: Rich in medicinal plants and tree species like Red Sanders, Sandalwood, Acacia, and Teak.
    • Fauna:
      • Mammals: Blackbuck, Common Fox, Four-horned Antelope, Indian Wolf, Hyena, and Fruit Bat.
      • Birds: Over 35 species, including Black Drongo, Black-winged Kite, Blossom-headed Parakeet, Blue Pigeon, Black-headed Oriole, and Grey Partridge.
    Climatic/Geographical Features
    • Comprises dry deciduous and moist deciduous forests.
    • Fringes are planted with Acacia and Teak.
    • Supports a dryland ecosystem with water bodies like the Chandrampalli Dam.
    • Features a mix of arid and semi-moist climatic conditions.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] In which one of the following States is Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary located?

    (a) Arunachal Pradesh

    (b) Manipur

    (c) Meghalaya

    (d) Nagaland

  • Species in news: Indian Bison (Gaur)

    Why in the News?

    The Jharkhand Forest department has initiated a study to revive the dwindling population of Bison, popularly known as Gaur, at Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR).

    bison

    About Indian Bison (Gaur)

    Details
    • Largest and tallest species in the wild cattle family.
    • Scientific Name: Bos gaurus.
    • Indigenous to South and Southeast Asia.
    Species Habitat and Location
    • Found in evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests with open grasslands.
    • Prefers hilly terrains below 1,500–1,800 m with abundant water.
    • Distributed across India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Thailand.
    Behavioural Features
    • Social animals living in herds of 30–40 individuals.
    • Strong and sturdy limbs, short tails, and inward-curved pale green/yellowish-brown horns.
    • Males weigh 600–1,500 kg; females weigh 400–1,000 kg.
    • Convex-shaped forehead; height ranges from 170–230 cm.
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
    • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I.
    • CITES: Appendix I.

     

    PYQ:

    [2011] A sandy and saline area is the natural habitat of an Indian animal species. The animal has no predators in that area but its existence is threatened due to the destruction of its habitat. Which one of the following could be that animal?

    (a) Indian wild buffalo

    (b) Indian wild ass

    (c) Indian wild boar

    (d) Indian gazelle.

  • National Turmeric Board

    Why in the News?

    The Union Minister of Commerce & Industry inaugurated the National Turmeric Board in New Delhi, with Palle Ganga Reddy appointed as its first Chairperson.

    About the National Turmeric Board  

    Details
    • Operates under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
    • Headquarters: Nizamabad, Telangana.
    • Aim: To enhance turmeric production, support farmers, and boost global exports.
    Structural Mandate
    • Chaired by a Central Government appointee.
    • Includes representatives from the Ministry of AYUSH, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and Department of Commerce.
    • Rotating senior representatives from three states are also part of the Board.
    Powers and Functions
    • Promotes awareness of turmeric’s medicinal and essential properties.
    • Supports farmers across 20 states, including Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
    • Facilitates research, value addition, and development of new products for domestic and global markets.
    • Enhances logistics, supply chains, and trade opportunities.
    Turmeric (Curcuma longa) Production in India
    • Turmeric is also known as ‘Golden Spice’.
      • It thrives in temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C with high annual rainfall.
    • India is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric globally.
    • Cultivates 30+ varieties over 3.05 lakh hectares, producing 10.74 lakh tonnes (2023-24).
    • Accounts for over 70% of global turmeric production and 62% of world exports.
    • Key exporting markets: Bangladesh, UAE, the US, and Malaysia.
    • GI-tagged turmeric includes Lakadong (Meghalaya), Kandhamal (Odisha), and Erode (Tamil Nadu).
    • Note: The Centre does NOT declare MSP for Turmeric.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following:

    1. Areca nut
    2. Barley
    3. Coffee
    4. Finger millet
    5. Groundnut
    6. Sesamum
    7. Turmeric

    The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has announced the Minimum Support Price for which of the above?

    (a) 1, 2, 3 and 7 only

    (b) 2, 4, 5 and 6 only

    (c) 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7

  • Recasting insolvency resolution

    Why in the News?

    The recent Supreme Court judgment in the Jet Airways case has highlighted several major problems in India’s insolvency system.

    What is the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC)? 

    • The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), enacted in 2016, is a comprehensive legal framework in India aimed at consolidating the existing laws governing insolvency and bankruptcy.
    • It establishes a structured process for resolving insolvency for corporate entities, individuals, and partnership firms, promoting timely resolution and maximizing asset value.

    What are the structural inefficiencies in the current Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC)?

    • Overburdened Tribunals: The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) are tasked with handling both corporate insolvencies under the IBC and cases under the Companies Act. This dual burden leads to inefficiencies and delays in resolving insolvency cases.
    • Inadequate Institutional Capacity: The NCLT’s structure, established in 1999, is outdated and does not align with contemporary economic demands. With only 63 sanctioned members, many of whom split their time across multiple benches, the tribunal struggles to manage its caseload effectively, resulting in significant backlogs.
    • Lack of Domain Expertise: Members of the NCLT often lack the necessary domain knowledge to handle complex insolvency cases effectively. This deficiency hampers their ability to make informed decisions, as highlighted by the Supreme Court in the Jet Airways case.
    • Procedural Delays: The requirement for mandatory hearings for all applications contributes to lengthy delays. The average time for insolvency resolutions has increased, indicating that procedural inefficiencies are exacerbating the situation.
    • Ineffective Urgent Listings: There is no robust system for urgent listings before the NCLTs, leading to further delays in critical cases. The discretion given to registry staff regarding case listings can lead to inconsistencies and unpredictability in case management.
    • Judicial Discretion Issues: There is a growing tendency among NCLT and NCLAT members to ignore Supreme Court orders, undermining judicial authority and eroding trust in the system.

    How can procedural innovations enhance the effectiveness of insolvency resolution?

    • Specialized Benches: Establishing specialized benches for different categories of insolvency cases could improve efficiency and ensure that cases are handled by members with relevant expertise.
    • Mandatory Mediation: Introducing mandatory mediation before filing insolvency applications could reduce the number of cases entering the formal insolvency process, alleviating pressure on tribunals.
    • Streamlined Hearing Processes: Revising the requirement for mandatory hearings on all applications could expedite processes, allowing for more efficient case management and resolution.
    • Improved Infrastructure: Investing in adequate courtrooms and permanent support staff is essential to enhance operational capacity and ensure that tribunals can function effectively within the broader economic framework.

    What reforms are necessary to transform the IBC into a proactive economic tool?

    • Reassessment of Tribunal Structure: A comprehensive review of the NCLT and NCLAT structures is needed to align them with current economic realities and demands, potentially increasing their sanctioned strength and operational hours.
    • Focus on Domain Expertise in Appointments: Reforming the appointment process for tribunal members to prioritise candidates with relevant experience in insolvency matters will enhance decision-making quality.
    • Encouraging Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Promoting alternative dispute resolution methods within the insolvency framework can help manage caseloads more effectively while providing quicker resolutions for stakeholders.
    • Legislative Amendments: Continuous legislative amendments should be made based on empirical data and stakeholder feedback to address emerging challenges within the IBC framework.
    • Cultural Shift Towards Credit Discipline: Encouraging a cultural shift that emphasizes credit discipline among borrowers will support a healthier economic environment conducive to investment and growth.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Institutional Capacity and Expertise: Enhance the operational capacity of NCLT and NCLAT by increasing strength by appointing members with domain expertise, and providing adequate infrastructure and support staff to streamline case management and reduce delays.
    • Promote Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Integrate mandatory mediation and other ADR mechanisms within the IBC framework to alleviate tribunal workload, ensure quicker resolutions, and foster a collaborative insolvency ecosystem.

  • How is TRAI and the govt. combating spam?

    Why in the News?

    The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) plans to use blockchain technology (DLT) to track and manage customer preferences for blocking spam, according to its chairman, Anil Kumar Lahoti.

    What is the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)?

    • The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) plays a crucial role in regulating Unsolicited Commercial Communications (UCC), commonly referred to as spam. Established under the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997.

    What is TRAI’s role in fighting spam?

    • Do-Not-Disturb (DND) Registry: Launched in 2007, the DND registry allows customers to opt out of receiving commercial calls and messages. Users who register are not supposed to receive any spam communications.
    • Telecom Commercial Communication Customer Preference Regulation (TCCCPR): Enacted in 2018, this regulation penalizes telemarketers who violate DND preferences. It includes warnings for offenders and potential blacklisting from sending messages if they accumulate enough violations.
    • DND App Development: TRAI collaborated with external agencies to create a DND application that enables users to register their preferences and report complaints. By 2024, it became mandatory for telecom providers to include DND reporting features in their apps.

    What role does blockchain play?

    TRAI has mandated the use of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) to enhance its spam control measures:

    • Immutable Record Keeping: Blockchain technology allows for a constantly updated and tamper-proof list of approved SMS senders and message formats. This ensures that only legitimate messages are sent, as each entry is unalterable by any party involved.
    • Message Traceability: Regulations require that messages be sent using sender IDs instead of phone numbers, enhancing traceability. This measure helps prevent unauthorized entities from sending spam by ensuring that all message origins are recorded.
    • Enhanced Regulations: In 2024, TRAI tightened regulations to ensure complete traceability of messages, addressing previous loopholes that allowed fraudulent registrations on blockchain systems

    What are the other steps taken by the government to end spam?

    • Sanchar Saathi Portal: This portal includes a reporting platform called Chakshu for complaints about fraudulent calls and messages. It collaborates with law enforcement and banks to identify and cancel numbers associated with unauthorised telemarketers.
    • Real-Time Monitoring: The establishment of the Telecom Security Operation Centre enables real-time monitoring of suspicious internet traffic, enhancing the government’s ability to respond promptly to spam-related threats.
    • AI-Based Detection: Telecom companies like Airtel have begun using Artificial Intelligence to label suspicious calls as “Suspected Spam,” a practice that is being adopted by other providers as well.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen International Collaboration: Partner with global VoIP providers and international regulators to curb spam and fraudulent calls originating from abroad, ensuring seamless enforcement across borders.
    • Promote AI and ML Integration: Expand the use of AI/ML technologies for proactive detection and blocking of spam calls and messages, while continuously improving user-friendly reporting mechanisms.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q For achieving the desired objectives,it is necessary to ensure that the regulatory institutions remain independent and autonomous. Discuss in the light of experiences in recent past. (UPSC IAS/2015)